New challenge: Tchetche Kipre signing a deal with Kuching City. — Kuching City FC
PETALING JAYA: Tchetche Kipre will enter his eighth season in the Super League but for the first time, he will be plying his trade in East Malaysia.
The 36-year-old Ivorian striker from Kuala Lumpur has been named as the new frontman for Kuching City as he reunites with Singaporean coach Aidil Sharin, who used to coach him in Kedah three years ago.
He had received several offers even from clubs outside of Malaysia since last year but kept his his word to join the Il Gatto (The Cats).
“When I give my word, I will not go back. I told Kuching City that I would join them and I did. Offers came, some wanted to negotiate, but I stopped it,” he said.
Kipre said Aidil was the pull factor.
“Coach Aidil said their budget was not the biggest in the league but I wanted to work with Aidil again. We had a great relationship when I was in Kedah.
“The club’s ambition and plans are good. I like it. Last season, they finished 13th in the Super League but this year, they want to grow as a team.
“The aim this season is to finish mid-table, which I believe is possible with the signings the club have made so far. Plus, Kuching is a beautiful city and peaceful too.”
Kipre has earned a reputation as one of the fearsome foreign strikers in the league and the fact he has continuously played for eight seasons is a testament to his abilities.
He is known for his finishing and also on how he elevates the level of other attackers with his intelligence and movement.
Despite his age, Kipre wants to continue challenging himself in a top-level environment.
“I have many years of experience in Malaysian football and I am aware that not many foreigners stay in the league for a long period like me. The personal challenge for me is to show people that I can still play and perform in the Super League,” he said.
With Liberian striker Abu Kamara leaving the club to play for Emirati club Dibba Al-Hisn, Kipre could be the main man upfront but he is set to have a partner soon.
“The club will announce a new name soon. I will be ready to partner him.”
